The answers may vary by the individual, but a group of researchers recently suggested that we are more likely to forgive for the sake of ourselves and for our relationships. When we do forgive for the sake of our relationship, it is likely related to our relationship quality and a decrease in revenge and avoidance.

Forgiveness is a difficult thing to achieve, depending on the infraction committed. Sometimes it takes a lifetime to achieve, but sometimes it can be moments. It is interesting to sit back and reflect on why we forgive. It can provide some insights into ourselves!

December 21, 2012/ August 27th, 2009, 7:25 am / Jesus DID go without food forty days and ntghis but He had power to live off the Word of God and only AFTER His abstinence ended did He feel hunger (Matt.4:2) An example is not a command. Many Christians have gotten ill or even died because they felt obligated to imitate Christ’s long fast. There is no other example given of Jesus going a long time without eating. He didn’t make His own disciples fast and drew criticism for it from John the Baptist’s disciples (Mark 2:13-22). Jesus, far from living a fasted life , was criticized for being a wine drinker and glutton (Matt.11:19). He contrasted Himself with John the Baptist’s ascetic lifestyle (Luke 7:33-34). Jesus was no drunk or glutton, but if He had been a frequent faster the charge would have been ridiculous. In the church council of Acts 15, no mention is made of new Gentile Christians needing to fast. Most of them would have been unfamiliar with the practice and needed teaching on it if it were a requirement. The epistles are silent on religious fasting.